RUGBY UNION: Bruised Tigers will fight through pain barrier

Sheffield Tigers Anthony Ross (left) congratulates Jamie Broadley after he went over in the corner for a first half try vs Caldy

Published:11:26Thursday 15 November 2012

Share this article

Sheffield Tigers bruising encounter at Cross Green against a well drilled Otley side was possibly not the best preparation for this week’s fixture against Stourbridge, the unbeaten National Two North league leaders.

Ben Wade, Tigers Coach commented “The guys played probably had one of the most physical games of the season so far, we incurred four to five injuries before half time depleting our bench to just one replacement ,

“Despite this, the positive from this game was policy of squad rotation as the guys gave a great account of themselves and still achieved a bonus point , obviously the lads were disappointed with the loss but I was very proud of the performance the lads gave.”

After the Otley encounter the injury list at Tigers is looking potentially long, with Anthony Ross, Biff Pearson, Ed Simmons all confirmed out for this week.

While the fitness of Jamie Broadly, Steve Walker and Andy Barnes is in the balance as they continue to have treatment and their selection will not be declared until Thursday night.

The good news is the man mountain, Charlie Cone’s pulled quad muscle is responding well and he’s expected to be available for this weekend.

The list of injuries maybe concerning for the Door Moor faithful but coach Wade believes the strength and depth of the Tigers squad will shine through.

“Looking into this week, we are playing Stourbridge knowing they have 11 wins from 11 but like every other week we treat every team with the upmost respect and Tigers take every game one at a time.

“Obviously we are carrying several injuries, but we have a great squad which works very hard in training I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to play on a Saturday afternoon for the Tigers.”

Meanwhile Sheffield Rugby Club had a blank weekend last week but will return to action with a visit to eighth place Pocklington on Saturday.

With just four matches to play in 2012 Sheffield are looking for a strong finish to the year, hoping to maintain or even improve on their current third place in Northern Division - North East One.

The Second XV won at Driffield last week Saturday and are away again this Saturday at Harrogate Georgians.